https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/rss/509370/feed en https://assets-v2.i-scmp.com/production/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg Wynna Wong,Lexi Tian Wynna Wong,Lexi Tian Mainland Chinese visitor arrivals in Hong Kong during the entire National Day “golden week” holiday exceeded the government’s forecast and surpassed last year’s total despite the break being one day shorter, with major mall and hotel operators also reporting brisk business. The city recorded more than 1.42 million mainland visitor arrivals during the seven-day holiday, exceeding the government’s forecast of 1.29 million, according to Immigration Department figures. More than 1.4 million mainland... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3370095/mainland-chinese-arrivals-hong-kong-beat-golden-week-forecast-just-6-days?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3370095/mainland-chinese-arrivals-hong-kong-beat-golden-week-forecast-just-6-days?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 08 Oct 2026 00:30:05 +0000 Cannix Yau Cannix Yau The annual Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival in late October will extend its opening hours until 1am on two nights and feature 10 per cent more booths, with the Tourism Board rolling out a gourmet month throughout November to boost visitor spending and encourage longer stays. Organised by the board under the theme “Taste the World’s Best”, the festival will be held from October 29 to November 1 at the Central Harbourfront, opening at 7.30pm on the first day and 1pm on the following days. The... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3370067/hong-kongs-wine-and-dine-festival-feature-extended-hours-10-more-booths?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3370067/hong-kongs-wine-and-dine-festival-feature-extended-hours-10-more-booths?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 07 Oct 2026 11:12:41 +0000 Lo Hoi-ying Lo Hoi-ying Travellers heading to and from the revamped Huanggang Port must use authorised public transport services only, including pre-booked licensed taxi fleets, as other ride-hailing services will not be available inside the boundary control area, according to the Hong Kong government. At a press conference on Wednesday, transport officials also urged travellers not to rush to use the new port in the initial phase of its operations. Ahead of the expected opening of the Huanggang Port on Monday, the... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3370014/travellers-must-use-authorised-buses-taxis-huanggang-port-hong-kong-authorities-say?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3370014/travellers-must-use-authorised-buses-taxis-huanggang-port-hong-kong-authorities-say?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 07 Oct 2026 07:56:28 +0000 Cheryl Arcibal Cheryl Arcibal Japanese, South Korean and Thai brands have increased their share of new entrants in Hong Kong’s retail property market by 7 percentage points to more than one-third in the first nine months of 2026, while the demand for shops from mainland Chinese brands has slipped, according to Cushman & Wakefield. A slew of new brands helped lift the combined share of Japanese, South Korean and Thai brands to a three-year high, according to Cushman, which said it expected the trend to continue. This year,... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/business/article/3369937/hong-kongs-first-store-appeal-grows-more-japanese-south-korean-and-thai-brands-arrive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/business/article/3369937/hong-kongs-first-store-appeal-grows-more-japanese-south-korean-and-thai-brands-arrive?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 06 Oct 2026 23:00:08 +0000 Jess Ma Jess Ma Hong Kong and mainland Chinese residents will have to register with immigration authorities on both sides of the border to use automated “joint clearance” channels at the revamped Huanggang Port crossing, with around 100,000 travellers a day expected to use the control point when operations begin. Hong Kong’s Immigration Department would deploy sufficient manpower to help passengers register at the checkpoint, assistant director Jacky Wong Ki said on Tuesday. “The whole registration process at... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/society/article/3369947/registration-both-sides-border-needed-huanggang-joint-clearance?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/society/article/3369947/registration-both-sides-border-needed-huanggang-joint-clearance?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 06 Oct 2026 13:19:07 +0000 Theodora Yu Theodora Yu About 100 incidents of visitors catching sea cucumbers and digging up sea snails and clams were recorded at a popular spot in Hong Kong’s Unesco-listed geopark on a single day of the National Day “golden week”, a green group has found, following similar incidents last year. The Po Pin Chau section of the High Island Geo Trail in Sai Kung was also strewn with rubbish on a separate day, Greenpeace said on Tuesday. At nearby Long Ke Beach, the group recorded nearly 90 instances of environmentally... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3369939/greenpeace-catches-hong-kong-geopark-golden-week-visitors-damaging-marine-life?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3369939/greenpeace-catches-hong-kong-geopark-golden-week-visitors-damaging-marine-life?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 06 Oct 2026 11:39:35 +0000 Ng Kang-chung Ng Kang-chung Hong Kong aviation authorities are investigating suspected illegal drone flying over Victoria Harbour during last week’s National Day fireworks display, after privately shot footage of the show went viral online. The footage drew the attention of local internet users after a mainland visitor, who came to Hong Kong during the “golden week” holiday, posted clips of the 23-minute display on his social media account over the weekend. The man, who calls himself Su Fan on RedNote, a popular platform... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/society/article/3369827/authorities-investigate-viral-drone-footage-during-national-day-fireworks-display?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/society/article/3369827/authorities-investigate-viral-drone-footage-during-national-day-fireworks-display?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 05 Oct 2026 13:48:37 +0000 Wynna Wong Wynna Wong Mainland Chinese arrivals to Hong Kong surged at the start of the National Day “golden week” holiday before easing towards last year’s levels, with a lawmaker attributing the early rush partly to the city’s fireworks display and tourists making the most of a shorter break. Immigration Department figures showed that 277,304 mainland visitors arrived on October 1, up 19.1 per cent from 232,751 on the first day of last year’s holiday and 25.1 per cent from the 221,644 recorded in 2024. “The... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/society/article/3369821/mainland-chinese-arrivals-hong-kong-surged-start-golden-week-holiday?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/society/article/3369821/mainland-chinese-arrivals-hong-kong-surged-start-golden-week-holiday?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 05 Oct 2026 12:35:26 +0000 Jess Ma Jess Ma More than 1,500 Hong Kong residents toured the revamped Huanggang Port border crossing on Sunday as authorities pushed ahead with preparations for its opening. A Security Bureau spokesman said that participants took franchised buses or cross-boundary coaches from various districts to reach the crossing and were shown the new port building in groups. “The event effectively enhanced participants’ understanding of the public transport arrangements, immigration and customs clearance and... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/society/article/3369721/1500-hong-kong-residents-tour-revamped-huanggang-port-border-crossing?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/society/article/3369721/1500-hong-kong-residents-tour-revamped-huanggang-port-border-crossing?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 04 Oct 2026 14:00:18 +0000 Kristen Cheung,Lo Hoi-ying Kristen Cheung,Lo Hoi-ying Mainland Chinese visitor arrivals in Hong Kong during the first two days of the National Day “golden week” surpassed the pre-pandemic total for the same period in 2018, as a catering sector representative reported a 10 per cent year-on-year increase in restaurant receipts. The tourism chief expressed confidence on Saturday that the city would reach its annual target of 53.8 million visitors earlier than expected. The city recorded 511,311 arrivals from the mainland on Thursday and Friday,... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3369651/mainland-chinese-arrivals-first-2-days-golden-week-holiday-top-2018-total?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3369651/mainland-chinese-arrivals-first-2-days-golden-week-holiday-top-2018-total?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 03 Oct 2026 06:13:51 +0000 Wynna Wong Wynna Wong Hong Kong’s retail sales rose by 5.6 per cent year on year in August, with the latest figures showing consumer spending picking up after growth eased for two consecutive months. Retail sales value reached HK$32 billion (US$4.1 billion), according to provisional figures released by the Census and Statistics Department on Friday. Sales in the first eight months of the year rose by 8.5 per cent compared with the same period in 2025. “Growth was seen across many types of retail outlets, while online... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3369559/consumer-spending-picks-hong-kong-retail-sales-rising-56-august?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3369559/consumer-spending-picks-hong-kong-retail-sales-rising-56-august?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 02 Oct 2026 08:50:22 +0000 Wynna Wong,Lexi Tian Wynna Wong,Lexi Tian Mainland Chinese tourists have poured into Hong Kong during the first two days of the National Day “golden week” holiday, but retailers have warned that the surge in visitor numbers is not translating into an equally strong boost in spending. The Hong Kong Retail Management Association said on Friday that visitor spending remained relatively restrained even as shopping districts were busy. “The increase in visitor numbers may be bigger than the increase in retail sales,” association chairwoman... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3369535/mainland-chinese-visitors-pack-hong-kong-shopping-centres-day-2-national-day-break?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3369535/mainland-chinese-visitors-pack-hong-kong-shopping-centres-day-2-national-day-break?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 02 Oct 2026 06:33:06 +0000 Kristen Cheung Kristen Cheung Wet weather dampened visitor numbers at some of Hong Kong’s popular attractions on Friday morning, the second day of mainland China’s National Day “golden week” holiday. Queues at the Peak Tram terminus in Central remained short, with passengers waiting less than an hour to board. Among them was Jasper Huang, a mechanical engineer in his twenties from Xiamen, Fujian province, who was visiting Hong Kong with friends for four days. “We plan to visit some famous spots like Victoria Harbour and the... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3369534/rain-dampens-visitor-numbers-hong-kong-attractions-day-2-golden-week?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3369534/rain-dampens-visitor-numbers-hong-kong-attractions-day-2-golden-week?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 02 Oct 2026 06:28:31 +0000 Connor Mycroft Connor Mycroft Thousands of Hongkongers, domestic helpers and tourists have taken advantage of the extended lantern show in Victoria Park as the National Day “golden week” holiday began in mainland China. Many people arrived early at sunset on Thursday to avoid the huge crowds that had previously gathered for the International Lantern Spectacular, organised by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, which has attracted more than 500,000 visitors since its debut in September. Before many of the lanterns were turned on in... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/society/article/3369474/extended-victoria-park-lantern-show-attracts-thousands-national-day?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/society/article/3369474/extended-victoria-park-lantern-show-attracts-thousands-national-day?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 01 Oct 2026 12:41:16 +0000 Lexi Tian Lexi Tian Hongkongers flocked across the border on National Day for grocery shopping, massages and trendy 60cm-long egg tarts, citing lower prices and a wider variety of leisure activities. Immigration Department figures showed that 238,112 residents had left Hong Kong by 9pm on Thursday, while the city had welcomed 269,567 mainland Chinese visitors. At the Lok Ma Chau spur line control point, crowds of Hongkongers gathered in the morning to head north, while mainland visitors travelled in the opposite... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3369458/national-day-hongkongers-visit-shenzhen-shopping-and-60cm-long-egg-tarts?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3369458/national-day-hongkongers-visit-shenzhen-shopping-and-60cm-long-egg-tarts?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 01 Oct 2026 09:48:24 +0000 Jess Ma,Kristen Cheung Jess Ma,Kristen Cheung Hongkongers have come out in droves to take advantage of restaurant discounts and transport promotions on National Day, while visitors have said the offers are a happy surprise. Businesses rolled out bargains and freebies to celebrate the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, which falls on October 1, ranging from restaurant discounts to free MTR rides. Residents were seen taking the train and visiting restaurants covered under the promotion push to capitalise on... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3369443/hong-kongs-national-day-perks-draw-locals-outside-pleasant-surprise-tourists?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3369443/hong-kongs-national-day-perks-draw-locals-outside-pleasant-surprise-tourists?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 01 Oct 2026 07:55:01 +0000 Eric Jiang Eric Jiang Half of the visitors who registered to visit the volcanic rock columns in Hong Kong’s Sai Kung failed to show up on the first day of the National Day break. The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said on Thursday night it had received bookings for 2,420 people, exceeding the official maximum capacity of 2,000, yet only 1,160 people showed up, a tally that included walk-in registrations. The booking system, which requires visitors to register via Klook using their real... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/society/article/3369438/hikers-flock-hong-kongs-po-pin-chau-first-day-national-day-golden-week?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/society/article/3369438/hikers-flock-hong-kongs-po-pin-chau-first-day-national-day-golden-week?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 01 Oct 2026 07:32:34 +0000 Wynna Wong,Cannix Yau Wynna Wong,Cannix Yau Some Hong Kong retailers are forecasting double-digit sales growth over the National Day “golden week” holiday, but industry leaders have warned that the expected influx of mainland Chinese visitors may deliver far smaller gains across the sector as tourists remain cautious about spending. The cautious outlook came after authorities estimated that about 1.29 million mainland visitors were expected between October 1 and 7, with average daily arrivals projected to exceed last year’s figure by more... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3369384/retailers-expect-golden-week-sales-growth-trade-groups-warn-modest-gains?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3369384/retailers-expect-golden-week-sales-growth-trade-groups-warn-modest-gains?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 01 Oct 2026 00:30:08 +0000 Enoch Yiu,Themis Qi Enoch Yiu,Themis Qi Hong Kong commercial banks continue to offer incentives to attract mainland visitors during the first golden week after Beijing tightened cross-border investment rules and enforced the collection of a 20 per cent levy on overseas investment or insurance gains. HSBC would offer up to HK$88,000 (US$11,215) for new high-end clients, as well as experiences including a National Day fireworks dinner and tickets to the China Open tennis tournament in Beijing or a K-pop concert, according to the bank’s... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/business/banking-finance/article/3369382/hong-kong-banks-set-golden-week-lures-mainland-chinese-visitors-despite-new-levies?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/business/banking-finance/article/3369382/hong-kong-banks-set-golden-week-lures-mainland-chinese-visitors-despite-new-levies?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 30 Sep 2026 15:39:25 +0000 Leopold Chen,Fiona Chow Leopold Chen,Fiona Chow Hong Kong’s crackdown on visitors abusing visas to illegally offer tour guide, photography and other services has failed to deter adverts for such unlicensed work on mainland Chinese social media ahead of the National Day “golden week” break, the South China Morning Post has found. A search of RedNote by the SCMP turned up accounts listing themselves as Shenzhen-based photographers offering their services in Hong Kong. Many of them also asked clients to reimburse their travel expenses between... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/society/article/3369247/cheap-and-illegal-mainlanders-post-social-media-adverts-services-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/society/article/3369247/cheap-and-illegal-mainlanders-post-social-media-adverts-services-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 30 Sep 2026 00:35:54 +0000 Wynna Wong Wynna Wong A new month-long campaign to transform Hong Kong into Asia’s premier Halloween destination will feature street parties across five neighbourhoods along with free rides on decorated buses and trams. The Tourism Board’s inaugural “Hong Kong Halloween Month” will bring street celebrations to Central, Kai Tak, Lan Kwai Fong, Mong Kok and Tsim Sha Tsui East on three consecutive Saturdays from October 17, culminating on Halloween night. The events will run alongside promotional events at Disneyland... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/society/article/3369226/hong-kong-turns-halloween-month-long-event-street-parties-free-rides?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/society/article/3369226/hong-kong-turns-halloween-month-long-event-street-parties-free-rides?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 29 Sep 2026 11:55:34 +0000 Eric Jiang Eric Jiang Hong Kong is set to welcome 1.29 million mainland Chinese visitors over the National Day “golden week” break, fuelling questions online about what locals and tourists can do during the celebrations. On popular mainland social media platform RedNote, many users have recommended a range of activities, such as visiting the countryside, exploring the Unesco Global Geopark in Sai Kung, cycling and watching fireworks. To help tourists and locals alike, the South China Morning Post shares some of the... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3369123/5-things-do-over-national-day-golden-week-holiday-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3369123/5-things-do-over-national-day-golden-week-holiday-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 29 Sep 2026 03:00:12 +0000 Wynna Wong Wynna Wong Hong Kong is bracing for a surge of mainland Chinese visitors to its eco-sensitive areas during the National Day “golden week” holiday, as strong interest in countryside attractions raises questions over whether the city can absorb crowds without overwhelming popular sites. A review of discussions on Chinese social media platform RedNote on Monday by the South China Morning Post found Po Pin Chau, famed for its dramatic volcanic rock columns, among the most talked-about sightseeing spots,... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3369108/can-hong-kong-protect-its-eco-sensitive-sites-amid-golden-week-overtourism-fears?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3369108/can-hong-kong-protect-its-eco-sensitive-sites-amid-golden-week-overtourism-fears?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 29 Sep 2026 00:30:08 +0000 Lo Hoi-ying Lo Hoi-ying Hong Kong’s checkpoints are expected to handle about 7.44 million passenger trips over mainland China’s National Day “golden week” break, while people movements are anticipated to peak this weekend. The Immigration Department said on Monday that the figure would include inbound and outbound trips by Hongkongers and visitors travelling via the city’s sea, land and air control points between October 1 and 7. The department also said it anticipated that the most popular control points would be... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/society/article/3369098/hong-kong-checkpoints-handle-744-million-passenger-trips-national-day-break?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/society/article/3369098/hong-kong-checkpoints-handle-744-million-passenger-trips-national-day-break?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 28 Sep 2026 13:18:57 +0000 Jess Ma Jess Ma Hong Kong immigration authorities are cracking down on tourists abusing their visas to run unlicensed one-stop shops offering cosmetic, photography and tour guide services. Li Kwing-chiu, a task force commander with the Immigration Department, said on Monday that four women, aged 20 to 31, had been arrested for allegedly breaching their conditions of stay by running a one-stop shop that charged several hundred Hong Kong dollars a day for various services. The suspects entered the city on tourist... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/law-and-crime/article/3369058/hong-kong-cracks-down-visitors-abusing-visas-run-one-stop-shop-tourist-services?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/law-and-crime/article/3369058/hong-kong-cracks-down-visitors-abusing-visas-run-one-stop-shop-tourist-services?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 28 Sep 2026 09:03:11 +0000 Lam Ka-sing Lam Ka-sing Mainland Chinese visitors made nearly 440,000 trips to Hong Kong over the extended Mid-Autumn Festival weekend, with a tourism industry representative expecting hotel occupancy to exceed 90 per cent in popular districts during the coming National Day “golden week”. According to figures released on Monday, Hong Kong’s Immigration Department recorded 439,532 inbound trips by mainland visitors from last Friday to Sunday. The figure accounted for about a quarter of the 1.73 million inbound trips,... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3369026/440000-mainland-arrivals-over-mid-autumn-weekend-hotels-brace-national-day?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3369026/440000-mainland-arrivals-over-mid-autumn-weekend-hotels-brace-national-day?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 28 Sep 2026 06:07:42 +0000 Cannix Yau Cannix Yau Hong Kong will celebrate the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China on October 1 with a string of offerings for locals and visitors. The National Day “golden week” holiday in mainland China, which runs from October 1 to 7, is expected to bring in about 1.29 million visitors from across the border. But Hongkongers will only have one public holiday during the period, on Thursday. The South China Morning Post lists the discounts and perks available during the... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3368962/fireworks-free-rides-and-dining-deals-how-celebrate-national-day-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3368962/fireworks-free-rides-and-dining-deals-how-celebrate-national-day-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 28 Sep 2026 03:00:09 +0000 Danny Mok Danny Mok At least three hikers fell ill on countryside trails as temperatures in parts of Hong Kong climbed to a sweltering 33 degrees Celsius (91 Fahrenheit) on Sunday. A 25-year-old visitor was suspected of suffering from heatstroke while he hiked with friends on the popular High Island Reservoir East Dam-Po Pin Chau hiking route in Sai Kung at about noon. A government helicopter airlifted him to Ruttonjee Hospital in Wan Chai for treatment. The route is one of Hong Kong’s best-known hiking trails,... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/society/article/3368956/3-hikers-fall-ill-hong-kong-trails-temperatures-top-33-degrees?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/society/article/3368956/3-hikers-fall-ill-hong-kong-trails-temperatures-top-33-degrees?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 27 Sep 2026 11:53:47 +0000 Wynna Wong,Ambrose Li Wynna Wong,Ambrose Li In the second of a two-part series on Hong Kong’s economic transformation, Ambrose Li and Wynna Wong profile three established enterprises that have rejuvenated their brands and reinvented their businesses. Read part one here. Late into the night, Hong Kong football fans in their twenties, thirties and forties sat in Lin Heung Lau restaurant on Wellington Street watching World Cup matches over dim sum rather than pints at a sports bar. The historic restaurant, traditionally associated with... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3368912/how-hong-kongs-old-businesses-are-adapting-new-times?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3368912/how-hong-kongs-old-businesses-are-adapting-new-times?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 27 Sep 2026 01:00:09 +0000 Kristen Cheung Kristen Cheung Hikers flocking to a popular geological attraction in Hong Kong’s Sai Kung over the Mid-Autumn Festival weekend have called for real-time displays showing when time slots are available under a trial registration system. The High Island Geo Trail’s Po Pin Chau section continued to draw lines of visitors on Saturday morning – the second day of an extended weekend in mainland China. While hikers who booked a slot under a newly introduced trial registration system were seen queuing at the entrance... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/society/article/3368895/hikers-urge-live-updates-free-quota-spots-fix-po-pin-chau-booking-confusion?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/society/article/3368895/hikers-urge-live-updates-free-quota-spots-fix-po-pin-chau-booking-confusion?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 26 Sep 2026 08:48:00 +0000 Cheryl Arcibal Cheryl Arcibal Investor appetite for hotel assets increased in Hong Kong and the wider Asia-Pacific region in the first half of the year as consumers showed growing eagerness to travel and constrained supply supported property values, according to CBRE. The region netted US$8 billion of investment in the period, up 21 per cent from a year earlier, with Japan, mainland China and South Korea attracting the most activity, the property consultancy said in a report on Thursday. “Hotels have become one of the most... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/business/article/3368759/asia-pacific-hotels-most-compelling-investment-amid-travel-growth-flat-supply-cbre?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/business/article/3368759/asia-pacific-hotels-most-compelling-investment-amid-travel-growth-flat-supply-cbre?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 25 Sep 2026 08:00:16 +0000 Wynna Wong Wynna Wong More than 1,000 visitors flocked to one of Hong Kong’s most popular geological attractions on the morning of the Mid-Autumn Festival, putting a new real-name reservation system through its first major holiday test. As mainland Chinese tourists began visiting the city for the long weekend, crowds were seen streaming towards the Po Pin Chau section of the High Island Geo Trail in Sai Kung under clear skies, despite the heat on Friday. Many mainland visitors said they had discovered the scenic spot... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3368778/over-1000-visitors-flock-po-pin-chau-trail-mid-autumn-festival-holiday-begins?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3368778/over-1000-visitors-flock-po-pin-chau-trail-mid-autumn-festival-holiday-begins?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 25 Sep 2026 06:51:08 +0000 Cannix Yau Cannix Yau From restaurants and hotels to cafes and market stalls, Hong Kong’s catering industry has banded together to offer discounts of up to 30 per cent at more than 3,800 outlets to celebrate National Day on October 1. Food and catering businesses said on Thursday they would provide an array of tasty deals across the city to mark the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. Offers include meal sets at 30 per cent off, fresh food items such as vegetable packs for HK$7 (89 US... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3368699/3800-hong-kong-food-outlets-offering-30-celebrate-national-day?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3368699/3800-hong-kong-food-outlets-offering-30-celebrate-national-day?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 24 Sep 2026 12:37:21 +0000 Cannix Yau Cannix Yau From moongazing and picnics to bus rides and a lantern extravaganza, the Mid-Autumn Festival in Hong Kong has plenty of activities for everyone. This year the festival falls on September 25, a Friday, with the following day designated as a public holiday in Hong Kong. The South China Morning Post rounds up Mid-Autumn Festival offerings. 1. What are the highlights at night? At Victoria Park in Causeway Bay, the Hong Kong Tourism Board has organised the city’s first International Lantern... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3368553/moongazing-bus-tours-how-celebrate-mid-autumn-festival-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3368553/moongazing-bus-tours-how-celebrate-mid-autumn-festival-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 23 Sep 2026 14:54:04 +0000 Edith Lin Edith Lin Hong Kong is expected to welcome about 1.29 million mainland Chinese travellers over the National Day “golden week” break, with city authorities planning to step up crowd management and tighten supervision of tour agencies and retail outlets. Chief Secretary Eric Chan Kwok-ki, Hong Kong’s No 2 official, chaired a meeting with various government departments on Wednesday to discuss preparations for the holiday on the mainland, which spans October 1 to 7. On top of the expected influx of about 1.29... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3368547/hong-kong-welcome-129-million-mainland-chinese-visitors-national-day-break?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3368547/hong-kong-welcome-129-million-mainland-chinese-visitors-national-day-break?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 23 Sep 2026 14:03:40 +0000 Cheryl Arcibal Cheryl Arcibal Late last month, an open tender for Hotel Cozi Harbour View in Kwun Tong was announced, with interested parties given until October 15 to submit bids. The 598-room hotel, located in Hong Kong’s eastern Kowloon Peninsula, a former industrial area, was taken over by Nanyang Commercial Bank for HK$1.87 billion (US$238.4 million) in 2025, with the bank now looking to dispose of the asset to the highest bidder. Just a week after the announcement of the tender, Nina Hospitality, one of the largest... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/business/article/3368207/once-worlds-most-visited-city-hong-kong-now-converts-hotels-student-dorms?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/business/article/3368207/once-worlds-most-visited-city-hong-kong-now-converts-hotels-student-dorms?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 21 Sep 2026 07:00:06 +0000 Wynna Wong Wynna Wong Hong Kong’s redeveloped Huanggang Port could begin operations as early as October 12, allowing cross-border travellers to complete dual immigration procedures in a single inspection under a new joint clearance system. The South China Morning Post learned on Friday that authorities were aiming to open the facility on that date, although the decision would depend on its operational readiness. An October 12 launch date would meet the government’s target of starting operations in the fourth quarter... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3367935/authorities-aim-launch-revamped-huanggang-port-october-12?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3367935/authorities-aim-launch-revamped-huanggang-port-october-12?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 18 Sep 2026 02:30:58 +0000 Eric Jiang,Simpson Cheung Eric Jiang,Simpson Cheung Hong Kong aims to expand the number of global destinations connected to its airport from 220 to 240 by 2030, with authorities exploring the launch of routes to Uzbekistan. Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu unveiled the goal in the city’s first five-year plan, stating authorities would explore aviation partnerships with 10 or more countries each year between 2026 and 2030, with at least 40 per cent involving nations belonging to the Belt and Road Initiative. Beijing launched the initiative in 2013... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3367830/hong-kong-airport-records-10-passenger-growth-cargo-falls-second-month?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3367830/hong-kong-airport-records-10-passenger-growth-cargo-falls-second-month?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 17 Sep 2026 06:23:12 +0000 Rebecca Lo Rebecca Lo Hong Kong’s five-star hotels can come across as intimidating, with more conservative properties wanting to shield their well-heeled visitors with ornate decor, black-uniformed staff and chintz seat cushions that ask: “Are you worthy?” For Dirk Dalichau, general manager of Mondrian Hong Kong in Tsim Sha Tsui, a hotel’s message should be welcoming – not only for guests but the wider community in the city. “I have been involved in so many projects that changed the hospitality landscape,” says the... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/travel-leisure/article/3367017/real-experiences-mondrian-hong-kong-general-manager-why-community-matters?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/lifestyle/travel-leisure/article/3367017/real-experiences-mondrian-hong-kong-general-manager-why-community-matters?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 15 Sep 2026 11:15:05 +0000 Leopold Chen Leopold Chen Hong Kong recorded its highest monthly number of visitors since the Covid-19 pandemic in August, provisional official figures show, with authorities preparing for an influx of mainland Chinese travellers during the coming “golden week” holiday. The Hong Kong Tourism Board said on Tuesday that the city received 5.46 million visitors last month, up by 6 per cent from a year earlier and the highest monthly total since the pandemic. Tourist numbers in the first eight months of 2026 also rose by 11... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3367569/hong-kong-visitor-arrivals-hit-post-pandemic-monthly-high-august?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3367569/hong-kong-visitor-arrivals-hit-post-pandemic-monthly-high-august?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 15 Sep 2026 07:34:32 +0000 Wynna Wong Wynna Wong Hong Kong should overhaul its ecotourism planning and allow visitors to book ahead at more of its popular countryside attractions, a lawmaker has said, after a survey found most residents believed the city had strong potential for nature-focused experiences but lacked enough quality options. A poll of 651 residents commissioned by lawmaker Perry Yiu Pak-leung’s office and think tank New Youth Forum found 71.8 per cent agreed Hong Kong’s countryside resources could be developed into high-quality... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3367488/hong-kong-urged-overhaul-ecotourism-planning-and-expand-bookings-hotspots?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3367488/hong-kong-urged-overhaul-ecotourism-planning-and-expand-bookings-hotspots?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 14 Sep 2026 12:14:32 +0000 Ken Chu Ken Chu When Cathay Pacific Airways announced direct flights to Almaty starting next January, the significance went beyond adding another destination. The service will be Cathay Pacific’s first to Central Asia and the only non-stop passenger connection between Hong Kong and Kazakhstan. Another announcement pointed to Hong Kong’s growing aviation reach from a different direction. Qatar Airways Cargo relocated its regional office to Hong Kong and agreed with the Airport Authority to increase frequencies... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3366027/hong-kong-aviation-success-today-means-more-just-adding-routes?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3366027/hong-kong-aviation-success-today-means-more-just-adding-routes?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 08 Sep 2026 01:30:06 +0000 Wynna Wong Wynna Wong Hong Kong’s tourism watchdog has revoked the licences of two travel agencies and a guide after finding they failed to protect members of mainland Chinese tour groups from “coerced shopping”. The Travel Industry Authority said on Monday that the licences of Go Go Ming Travel Services, Grandee Travel Company and guide Sun Kwun-ying had been revoked with immediate effect. “The authority adopts a zero-tolerance approach towards coerced shopping and any conduct that damages the reputation of Hong... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/society/article/3366602/2-hong-kong-travel-agencies-guide-stripped-licences-over-coerced-shopping?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/society/article/3366602/2-hong-kong-travel-agencies-guide-stripped-licences-over-coerced-shopping?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 07 Sep 2026 05:57:25 +0000 Letters Letters Feel strongly about these letters, or any other aspects of the news? Share your views by emailing us your Letter to the Editor at letters@scmp.com or filling in this Google form. Submissions should not exceed 400 words. The Tourism Board’s new “Only in Hong Kong” campaign gets something right. Rather than leaning on mega-events and headline attractions, it turns its attention to Hong Kong experiences that are authentic and distinctive: tram rides, neighbourhood streets, dai pai dong, wet markets... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/opinion/letters/article/3366208/are-we-preserving-hong-kong-tourists-come-here?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/opinion/letters/article/3366208/are-we-preserving-hong-kong-tourists-come-here?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 07 Sep 2026 03:30:07 +0000 Theodora Yu Theodora Yu Hong Kong authorities will review a new reservation system for a Sai Kung trail famed for its dramatic volcanic rock columns after the National Day “golden week” in October, following large numbers of no-shows during the first two trial runs. Only 1,560 registered and walk-in patrons arrived at Po Pin Chau on Saturday and Sunday, despite 3,230 people having made bookings under the real-name reservation system. Lawmakers and a district councillor have called for more on-site quotas, clearer... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3366560/hong-kong-review-bookings-famous-sai-kung-trail-after-high-no-show-rate?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3366560/hong-kong-review-bookings-famous-sai-kung-trail-after-high-no-show-rate?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 06 Sep 2026 14:13:33 +0000 Lam Ka-sing Lam Ka-sing Retired harbour pilot Alex Yu Chi-leung sailed his 50-foot wooden yacht, Bowline, from Causeway Bay in Hong Kong to Dongao Island in Zhuhai under a new cross-border yachting scheme last week, but bureaucratic hurdles and shallow waters tempered the excitement of the leisure trip. It was Yu’s first voyage under the scheme, but it could also be his last unless mainland Chinese authorities improve certain requirements. “If the procedures are simplified – because right now they are too numerous,... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3366503/red-tape-high-cost-can-hong-kongs-new-yacht-scheme-chart-smoother-course?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3366503/red-tape-high-cost-can-hong-kongs-new-yacht-scheme-chart-smoother-course?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 06 Sep 2026 03:00:12 +0000 Edith Lin,Eric Jiang Edith Lin,Eric Jiang At least 15 high-speed cross-border train services were delayed in Hong Kong after a signalling fault prompted a 45-minute disruption of northbound journeys on Sunday morning. The Transport Department said at around 8.30am that the MTR Corporation had notified authorities that high-speed rail services at the West Kowloon terminus of the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link would be delayed due to a “signal fault”. At around 9.15am, the department said the MTR Corp had resolved the... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3366514/signalling-fault-disrupts-hong-kong-high-speed-rail-service-delaying-15-trains?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3366514/signalling-fault-disrupts-hong-kong-high-speed-rail-service-delaying-15-trains?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 06 Sep 2026 02:35:28 +0000 Jess Ma Jess Ma An overhead electronic display was left dangling in the air at Hong Kong airport’s newly reopened Terminal 2, prompting authorities to pledge a detailed investigation. A spokesman said the incident occurred at about 8.30am on Saturday, when a suspended screen “experienced a technical fault”, triggering its fall-arrest safety system. “The Airport Authority takes the incident very seriously and will conduct a detailed investigation into the cause, with a view to further enhancing the stability of... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3366462/overhead-display-left-dangling-airports-terminal-2-investigation-under-way?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3366462/overhead-display-left-dangling-airports-terminal-2-investigation-under-way?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 05 Sep 2026 05:45:57 +0000 Lam Ka-sing Lam Ka-sing American ice cream chain Dairy Queen will open four Hong Kong outlets in the fourth quarter of this year, as part of an ambitious expansion plan amid a wave of food and retail shop closures across the city. Dairy Queen, an 85-year-old brand, said on Friday that it would launch its flagship store at One Causeway Bay shopping centre on Hong Kong Island in November, followed by three other outlets in Kowloon, the New Territories and the outlying islands before the end of the year. “Following... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3366423/dairy-queen-make-hong-kong-comeback-4-stores-it-scooping-cheap-rents?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3366423/dairy-queen-make-hong-kong-comeback-4-stores-it-scooping-cheap-rents?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 04 Sep 2026 11:30:40 +0000 Kristen Cheung Kristen Cheung Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel will temporarily close from October 12 for a comprehensive renovation and upgrade, with no completion date announced, as the resort shifts focus to seasonal culinary offerings and immersive storytelling. Hong Kong Disneyland announced on Friday that the Victorian-style property, open since 2005, will be revamped with Disney movie-themed rooms, while retaining the hotel’s classic charm. “As the world’s only Disney resort backed by mountains and facing the sea, this... https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/society/article/3366415/hong-kong-disneyland-hotel-close-october-12-major-renovation?utm_source=rss_feed https://www-scmp-com.libproxy1.nus.edu.sg/news/hong-kong/society/article/3366415/hong-kong-disneyland-hotel-close-october-12-major-renovation?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 04 Sep 2026 11:09:53 +0000